Pet survival kits have the same basic purpose as the human variety. They are designed to provide for a companion animal's needs in the event of a disaster or emergency. What you need in the kit is dependent in part on the type ofpets you own and if they have any special needs.
Special needs dogs and therapy dogs should have an identification tag that provides this information. It could actually save your animal in the event you are accidentally separated. Blindness, medical problems, and even high anxiety issues should be noted. Unfortunately, when a large scale disaster strikes, decisions regarding the animals collected can be hinging on information like this.
You will definitely need food and water. It is actually best to take the time and seal food in portion appropriate airtight containers. You do not know how long it will be until you can get more food and you also can carry more this way if you use an air vacuum system. Collapsible dishes take up very little space and are easy to clean out.
The goal of making a package like this is to keep everyone together and safe. You should also be prepared for the worst should it happen. If there is any way to get your companion animal to carry his or her own gear you are actually doing them a favor. Dogs are especially keen on being able to access their own food if they are separated and alone for a long period of time.
If it is at all possible you should have extra medication packed well before it is needed. You want to get an extra dose of your regular preventatives to keep infestations away. You also want to include prescriptions if possible. Certain medications may not be easy to get for advanced packing. Tramadol, for instance, is a commonly used painkiller but cannot be randomly dispensed. You may not be able to collect all of it from your vet but you should still ask.
Waterless shampoo, grooming supplies, and blankets are also encouraged. If your pet ends up sick or injured a blanket will be important. Make sure you have extra leashes for dogs, collapsible carriers for small dogs and cats, and a good way to keep any pocket pets from escaping. Avoid placing pocket pets in airtight containers. They can easily run out of air.
Being prepared for a disaster or emergency can often be the difference between staying together and leaving your best buddy behind. Having the gear ready to go means that you will not have to make a choice about who can come and who has to stay because you just do not have the time to gather everything. By being prepared you are already setting it up that everyone stays together.
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